Charleston, September 23, 2025
News Summary
Charleston is featuring a range of literary events this week, including Hoda Kotb’s national book tour for her new book ‘Jump and Find Joy.’ The schedule includes discussions with authors such as Andrew Lawler, Michael Jerome Plunkett, John T. Edge, and Frances Palmer. While the literary events thrive, concerns regarding historical representation by the National Park Service and local public safety issues are also highlighted.
Charleston’s Upcoming Literary Events Feature Hoda Kotb’s Book Tour and Various Author Discussions
Charleston is set to host a series of exciting literary events this week, featuring former “Today Show” host Hoda Kotb. Kotb launched her national book tour for her new book, “Jump and Find Joy,” at a sold-out event at the Charleston Rivera. The book is described as “real and raw,” and it addresses various life challenges and choices, resonating with a broad audience eager to engage with her insights.
In addition to Kotb’s tour, several book-related discussions are scheduled throughout the week. On September 23 at 6 p.m., “The Perfect Frenzy” event at the Charleston Library Society will feature author Andrew Lawler discussing Virginia’s significant role in the Revolution as a part of the SC 250 anniversary series. Following this, on September 24 at 6 p.m. at Buxton Books, Michael Jerome Plunkett will talk about his debut novel “Zone Rouge,” joined by Bret Lott in a discussion about his literary journey.
Another intriguing event will occur on September 25 at 6 p.m., where John T. Edge will be at the Charleston Library Society to discuss “House of Smoke,” a book that delves into his Georgia roots, featuring a conversation with Garden and Gun Editor in Chief, David Dibenedetto. Meanwhile, on September 26 at 10:30 a.m., Frances Palmer will present “Life with Flowers,” exploring the connections between pottery, gardening, and flower arranging.
The literary scene in Charleston is vibrant, but it is not without its challenges. The National Park Service is currently under scrutiny after a deadline passed for the removal of materials deemed negative about America at historical sites in Charleston. Several books were placed under review following a directive from the Trump administration, raising questions about historical representation and censorship.
Meanwhile, an opinion piece highlights the importance of engaging with literature during times of national turmoil, promoting reading as a means of understanding and reflection. Additionally, South Carolina legislators have been recognized with the OneSouthCarolina Awards from the Riley Institute at Furman University. This acknowledgment is given for their commitment to inclusivity and progress within the state.
On a more serious note, a man named Justin Wright, 32, from Moncks Corner, faces over a dozen charges following an armed carjacking incident and subsequent shooting at officers during a chase in Folly Beach. This has raised concerns about public safety in the region.
Furthermore, Charleston City Council is seeking to end a taxpayer subsidy for the St. Andrews Public Service District, labeling it as unfair due to recent annexations. Meanwhile, approximately 200 members of the South Carolina National Guard have returned home from a deployment in Washington, D.C., where they were credited with playing a role in crime-fighting efforts.
Upcoming Literary Events in Charleston:
- The Perfect Frenzy – Sept. 23 at 6 p.m., Charleston Library Society
- Zone Rouge – Sept. 24 at 6 p.m., Buxton Books
- House of Smoke – Sept. 25 at 6 p.m., Charleston Library Society
- Life with Flowers – Sept. 26 at 10:30 a.m., Charleston Library Society
Overview of Key Issues in Charleston:
- Scrutiny of National Park Service regarding historical representation
- Recognition of legislators with OneSouthCarolina Awards
- Concerns over public safety after armed carjacking incident
- Charleston City Council’s efforts against taxpayer subsidy to St. Andrews Public Service District
- Return of National Guard members from Washington, D.C.
FAQ
What events are scheduled for Charleston’s literary week?
The following book-related events are scheduled for the week:
- The Perfect Frenzy – Sept. 23 at 6 p.m., Charleston Library Society
- Zone Rouge – Sept. 24 at 6 p.m., Buxton Books
- House of Smoke – Sept. 25 at 6 p.m., Charleston Library Society
- Life with Flowers – Sept. 26 at 10:30 a.m., Charleston Library Society
Who is Hoda Kotb and what is her new book about?
Hoda Kotb is a former “Today Show” host who has launched her national book tour for her new book, “Jump and Find Joy,” at a sold-out event at the Charleston Rivera. She describes her book as “real and raw,” dealing with life’s challenges and choices.
Key Features of Upcoming Literary Events
| Event Title | Date | Time | Location | Author |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Perfect Frenzy | Sept. 23 | 6 p.m. | Charleston Library Society | Andrew Lawler |
| Zone Rouge | Sept. 24 | 6 p.m. | Buxton Books | Michael Jerome Plunkett |
| House of Smoke | Sept. 25 | 6 p.m. | Charleston Library Society | John T. Edge |
| Life with Flowers | Sept. 26 | 10:30 a.m. | Charleston Library Society | Frances Palmer |
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Additional Resources
- Charleston City Paper: Authors in Town for Book Events This Week
- ABC News 4: Charleston Library Society Children’s Literary Event
- Charleston Business: Reese Witherspoon to Attend Charleston Literary Festival
- Post and Courier: Pride Month Events in Charleston
- WOWK TV: Books and Booze Fair in August
- Wikipedia: Literary Festival
- Google Search: Charleston literary events
- Google Scholar: literature events Charleston
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charleston literary festival
- Google News: Charleston books events
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